To mark the start of Reconciliation Week the City of Canada Bay has unveiled an artwork by local artist and Ngunnawal woman Melle Smith-Haimona.
“I’m delighted to unveil such a beautiful artwork that has added vibrancy to our Civic Centre and strengthens our connection to First Nations culture,” City of Canada Bay Mayor Angelo Tsirekas said.
Melle’s artwork depicts an eel, referencing the Parramatta River, which is known in Indigenous culture as Burramattagal or ‘place where eels lie down’.
“The Parramatta River defines the border of the City of Canada Bay, where I have lived my entire life. This piece was an opportunity to reflect on this country and my place in it,” Melle said.
“I’m proud that that the artwork has pride of place, welcoming people into their civic hub.”
Melle Smith-Haimona is the 2022 City of Canada Bay Arts and Culture Citizen of the Year. Her work will also be on display as part of an exhibition for NAIDOC week from 2–9 July 2023.
The City of Canada Bay acknowledges the Wangal clan, one of 29 tribes of the Eora nation and the traditional custodians of this land. The City’s Council pays respect to elders past and present and extends this respect to all Aboriginal people living in or visiting the City of Canada Bay.
